MEDALLISTS’ REACTION
Ibatullina (RUS) said: “It was very interesting and very long – three days of competition. I’m very happy about my result and the result of my team.
“Fencing was so hard for me, three or four hours, and Swimming was hard too because one week ago I was ill. At first I didn’t know if I would come to the Junior World Championships. I’m very happy.”
Bryson (GBR) said: “I had a good fence, but didn’t finish so great but then when I reflected and realised it was actually pretty good, I was happy. Then I carried that through to the Bonus Round, where I didn’t get any points.
“I was quite pleased with my Swimming, pretty close to my PB [personal best] which is what I was hoping for – and then the ride was good, I was really happy with my horse.
“In the Laser Run I set off in 6th, 13sec behind Ibatullina. She’s a great athlete and it would have been incredible if I had caught her, but I just went in with an open mind and didn’t picture any medals. I just concentrated on my process and then when I crossed the line I realised I had won a silver medal. I just kept my head and kept calm, didn’t look behind me.”
Barta (HUN) added: “I wanted to do my best and enjoy the competition, and after the Swimming I was really positive and happy.
“The Riding went really well and I wasn’t so nervous. In the Laser Run I knew I had to run really fast and shoot my best, and I did everything I could.
“I really like to compete in Drzonkow – I like the atmosphere and everything that comes with it. I really enjoyed it.
“I will work hard – harder than ever – and I still have one year in juniors. In the future my goal is to compete at the Paris Olympics in 2024.”
SWIMMING
Ibatullina (RUS) put herself quickly into contention as she registered the third-fastest time of the day with 2:16.39. The top performer was Beatrice Mercuri (ITA) with a time of 2:14.83, with Michelle Gulyas (HUN) slotting in behind her on 2:15.31.